Posted 11:14 a.m. Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026
Joy, comfort, and connection
Valentine’s Day might be considered the “worst” holiday if you’re single. In reality, Valentine’s Day can be so much more than a romantic celebration. It’s a day for self‑care, self‑love, and appreciation for the people who bring meaning to your life. Whether that’s family, friends, a partner, or most importantly yourself, this holiday can be whatever you choose to make it.
If you want to overcome that feeling of needing a Valentine, try celebrating in ways that focus on joy, comfort, and connection. A few ideas include:
- Dressing up and feeling cute, just for you
- Treating yourself to your favorite snack, a cozy binge‑watch session, or something small that makes you smile
- Buying yourself flowers
- Journaling, reflecting, or setting intentions for the rest of the semester
- Baking Valentine’s treats for your roommates or friends
- Hosting a Galentine’s Day gathering
- Trying out a new coffee shop or restaurant
These moments of intentional care help build gratitude and strengthen your relationship with yourself. That's something worth celebrating every day, not just on February 14. It’s also normal to feel a mix of emotions during Valentine’s Day. Prioritizing your mental health is essential, and giving yourself permission to feel whatever comes up is part of practicing self‑love. If you need support this Valentine’s Day, or any day, explore these resources:
- Counseling and Testing
- UWL 24/7 Mental Health Crisis Support: Call 608-785-8073 and press 1
- Mantra Health: Student can access virtual therapy, psychiatry, and coaching services in the Care Hub
- Togetherall: Sign up with your UWL email to join a 24/7, anonymous online community where students can give and receive support from peers
Olivia Holman, Peer Health Advocate